Forest Whitaker (born July 15, 1961 in Longview, Texas) is an American actor, producer and director. He has an eye condition called strabismus.

Whitaker has performed in over 47 movies, produced over 8 films, and directed 5 movies. On screen since 1979, he has played a heavy, soft character, and a variety of roles in between.

In 2002, he was the host and narrator of The Twilight Zone, which lasted one season. In 2006, Whitaker joined the cast of FX's cop serial The Shield, as Lieutenant John Kavanaugh. Whitaker's performance as the tormented internal affairs cop helped continue the show's popularity among viewers.